Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice

The Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice delivers a comprehensive program of teaching and research to support the criminal justice system and the agencies and personnel who are delegated the task of public safety and service. The goal of the program is to ensure that potential and current criminal justice personnel have the opportunity to study the most comprehensive and contemporary methods and policies dealing with administration, management, human resources, intelligence, terrorism, and cultural diversity.

On Campus and Online
The Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice degree program is offered in the traditional on campus format as well as online.

Criminal Justice Students May Find Careers In:

The Behavioral Sciences

Forensics

Law Enforcement

Government

Intelligence

The Court System

Private Security

Why Criminal Justice?

Is the Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice Right For Me?

Hodges University’s Criminal Justice Program prepares students with no prior related work experience for entry level positions within the criminal justice system as well as similar positions in the private sector. If you are already working in criminal justice, this degree can help you advance your career and obtain management level positions, building upon previous experience and training.

If you are already working in or interested in pursuing a career in the following areas, Hodges' BCJ program may be right for you!

Law Enforcement

The Court System

Corrections

Intelligence

Forensic Science

Careers

What is the Criminal Justice Career Outlook?*

There are many options for a career in criminal justice and the Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a positive outlook for numerous positions. In fact, the 2013 Occupational Outlook Handbook shows that employment for the following occupational categories is expected to grow anywhere from 5-19% from 2010 to 2020.

Curriculum

What Will I Learn?

You may enter the BCJ program during any semester. A full time student, 12 semester hour credits per term or typically 3 courses per term, can complete this program in approximately 3-1/2 years.

Hover over the course names below to view course descriptions.

Area I

Criminal Justice Core

A.

Criminal Justice Component

Semester Hour Credit

CCJ1400

Introduction to Criminal Justice

CCJ1400 - Introduction to Criminal Justice - 4 Credits

Systems The course represents an introductory level of study in the areas of criminal justice. The course
will provide an overview of police, courts, and corrections, both from the historic
and contemporary perspective. The study will include local, state, and federal systems, legal basis,
and jurisdiction. This course is a prerequisite to all upper level CCJ courses.

4

CCJ1800

Introduction to Corrections

CCJ1800 - Introduction to Corrections - 4 Credits

In this introductory course, the student will examine the United States correctional system from the perspectives of both the corrections worker
and the offender. Career-based material, actual cases, and the ever changing philosophies on
offender treatment and sanctions will be explored.

Prerequisite: CCJ1400

4

CCJ2001

Introduction to Law Enforcement

CCJ2001 - Introduction to Law Enforcement - 4 Credits

Philosophy and history of law enforcement; limitations
imposed on law enforcement in a democratic society in accordance with the Constitution; agencies of
law enforcement; role and place of law enforcement in the total justice process.

Prerequisite: CCJ1400

4

CCJ2101

Criminology

CCJ2101 - Criminology - 4 Credits

A study of the nature and extent of crime and delinquency, the cause and explanation of criminal
behavior, and the rationale of crime-centered treatment.

Prerequisite: CCJ1400

4

CCJ2200

Courts and Criminal Procedure

CCJ2200 - Courts and Criminal Procedure - 4 Credits

An exploration of the authority and limitations of the various American court systems, while
focusing on the landmark court decisions of the United States Supreme Court that form the
foundation of our criminal justice system. The constant interaction between the justice system and
the legal system shall be critically analyzed with an emphasis in letting the student develop a
practical understanding of the entire Criminal Justice System through current legal issues.

Prerequisite: CCJ1400

4

CCJ2800

Survey of Forensic Science

CCJ2800 - Survey of Forensic Science - 4 Credits

Survey of Forensic Science is an introductory course that focuses on the fundamental elements of
forensic activity and its relationship with criminal investigations. Historical and contemporary
forensic practices will be reviewed. Foundational exposure to science and scientific principles
will be presented in order for the student to proceed to crime scene processing. Numerous, specific
examples of forensic science applications will be explored.

Prerequisite: CCJ1400

4

CCJ3131

Crime and Delinquency

CCJ3131 - Crime and Delinquency - 4 Credits

A study of such pertinent issues as social movements, drug abuse, interpersonal violence, sexual
deviance, and poverty, with particular reference to the juvenile population.

Prerequisites: CCJ1400 and permission of the Faculty/Program Advisor, Program Chair, and Dean

4

CCJ4000

Professionalism and Ethics in Criminal Justice

CCJ4000 - Professionalism and Ethics in Criminal Justice - 4 Credits

The study of principled theories and practices of legality, morality and values as they pertain to
criminal justice, also included will be such topics as police corruption, brutality, and methods of
dealing with such practices, as well as the concept of profession and professional conduct.

Prerequisites: CAP1000, ENG1101, CCJ1400, CCJ2101 or permission of the Chair

4

CCJ4001

Criminal Justice Management

CCJ4001 - Criminal Justice Management - 4 Credits

Overview and examination of the various management systems that are employed within the
agencies identified in the criminal justice system. Emphasis will be placed on entry requirements,
training, means of evaluation and promotion, and disciplinary actions.

Prerequisites: CAP1000, ENG1101, CCJ1400, CCJ2101

4

CCJ4002

Criminal Investigation

CCJ4002 - Criminal Investigation - 4 Credits

Modern criminal investigation is the backbone for successful criminal prosecutions. This course
will cover the history of criminal investigations as well as theories of investigation, procedure,
preservation of evidence, sources of information, questioning witnesses and suspects, case/trial
preparation and the rules of evidence. Basic constitutional constraints imposed on law enforcement
by the Fourth, Fifth, Sixth, and Eighth Amendments will also be covered.

Prerequisites: CAP1000, ENG1101, CCJ1400, CCJ2101 or permission of the Chair

4

CCJ4010

Hate Crimes

CCJ4010 - Hate Crimes - 4 Credits

Although not a new phenomenon, hate crimes have recently emerged as a topic of discussion
among criminal justice professionals. Specific hate groups, propaganda, and coded language will be
covered and specific attention will be placed upon the role media plays in propagating hate crimes
across the nation. This course will also help students analyze root responses to hate crimes to
evaluate their effectiveness.

Prerequisites: CAP1000, ENG1101, CCJ1400, CCJ2101 or permission of the Chair

4

CCJ4020

Victims of Crime

CCJ4020 - Victims of Crime - 4 Credits

Assessment of the literature, research and current trends concerning the victim in the criminal
justice system; particular attention is given to the victim rights and compensation, fear of crime,
measuring victimization, and the impact of victimization on the individual.

Prerequisites: CAP1000, ENG1101, CCJ1400, CCJ2101 or permission of the Chair

4

CCJ4730

Global Terrorism

CCJ4730 - Global Terrorism - 4 Credits

An overview of the field of terrorism using a multi-dimensional approach that draws
from international relations, law and police strategies. This course emphasizes research and analysis
of both historical and current terrorist activities and groups. Students will gain the ability to
examine and scrutinize international strategies aimed at reducing terrorist incidents.

Prerequisites: CAP1000, ENG1101, CCJ1400, CCJ2101 or permission of the Chair

4

CCJ4735

Race, Gender and Crime

CCJ4735 - Race, Gender and Crime - 4 Credits

A survey of the relationship between race, gender and crime in the United States, with a special
emphasis on the theories, philosophies, functions, and treatment of minorities within the criminal
justice system of the United States. Focusing on the historical past, present-day issues, future
directions and the role this relationship has played in the economic, political, and sociological
reasons why racial minorities are over-represented in the criminal justice system.

Prerequisites: CAP1000, ENG1101, CCJ1400, CCJ2101 or permission of the Chair

4

CCJ4740

Comparative Criminal Justice Systems

CCJ4740 - Comparative Criminal Justice Systems - 4 Credits

This course provides the student with an understanding of Criminal Justice as a system, across
international borders. Various countries are selected to provide an adequate base of reference for
evaluative purposes. The knowledge is critical in the quest for understanding how criminal justice
systems are created and modified because of religious, political and cultural demands.
The historical approach is the vehicle used to accomplish this.

Prerequisites: CAP1000, ENG1101, CCJ1400, CCJ2101

4

CCJ4999

Criminal Justice Exit Assessment Exam

CCJ4999 - Criminal Justice Exit Assessment Exam - 0 Credits

This is a comprehensive exam covering topics studied in Criminal Justice and must be taken after completing all wheels.

0

Total Criminal Justice Core

64

Area II

Liberal Arts Component

CAP1000

Computer Applications

CAP1000 - Computer Applications - 4 Credits

This course helps students develop the knowledge and skills necessary to be able to use a computer effectively as a tool for productivity,
communication, collaboration and problem-solving. The course coverage includes: knowledge of
computer operations and file management, the use of email, navigating the Internet to search for
information and resources, online safety, security and privacy, as well as the ability to use the
current Microsoft Office suite including Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Access at a level of basic
proficiency.

4

ENG1101

English Composition

ENG1101 - English Composition - 4 Credits

This course is designed to encourage students to evaluate their own writing practices,
learn strategies to make their writing more effective, and then apply their understanding to expository
and research writing. Students must pass this course with a grade of C or better.

Prerequisite: A score of 60 or better, or its equivalent on the language skills section of the CPAt test, a score of 65 or
better on the language section of the COMPASS test, a score of 48 or better on the language section
of the Online Entrance test, or ENG0991 and/or ENG0992 with at least a grade of C.

4

MAC1132

College Mathematics

MAC1132 - College Mathematics - 4 Credits

This course will provide the student with a
firm understanding of college level mathematics as it relates to the contemporary world. Topics
include critical thinking, set theory, logic, number systems, and an introduction to probability.
Other topics include an introduction to Algebra and Geometry, solving linear equations, ratios,
proportions, variation, percents and interest, measurement, and the metric system. Modern
applications are emphasized with the above topics. All students must earn a C or better in this
course.

Prerequisite: A score of 60 or better, or its equivalent on the mathematics section of
the CPAt test, a score of a 50 or better on the mathematics section of the COMPASS Test, a score of
a 18 or better on the mathematics section of the Online Entrance Test, or a grade of C or better in
MAT0998

4

PSY2012

General Psychology

PSY2012 - General Psychology - 4 Credits

A comprehensive survey of the diverse and rapidly expanding field of psychology, with emphasis
on the measurement and behavior of humans, the nervous system, abnormal and deviant behavior,
mental illness, psychological impairment due to the aging process, and related research in the
field of study.

4

POS2050

American National Government

POS2050 - American National Government - 4 Credits

The purpose of this course is to survey the
organization, structure and function of the three branches and levels of government in the United
States. The course will trace the evolution of the American governmental system including the
institutions and processes that are in place to govern the United States of America.

4

PSY3007

Psychology of Deviance

PSY3007 - Psychology of Deviance - 4 Credits

To provide an analysis and to identify deviance associated with that behavior which is identified
as criminal. The course objectives include a clear demonstration of the range of criminal behavior
that has its origins in choice and/or compulsion and it is best characterized as patterns or serial
offenses. The course provides alternative views to normative behavior and the related sociological
bases for behavior outside of the accepted norms established by society. Criminal deviance is the
focus of the course and specific attention is given to crimes that are exceptional in terms of
violence and defy traditional means of prediction and deterrence.

Prerequisites: ENG1101 and PSY2012 or permission of the Faculty/Program Advisor, Program Chair, and Dean

4

STA3014

Statistics

STA3014 - Statistics - 4 Credits

This course introduces the students to statistical techniques in descriptive and inferential
statistics including measures of central tendency and variation, hypothesis testing, and confidence intervals.

Prerequisites: MAC1132

4

COM3015

Professional Communication

COM3015 - Professional Communication - 4 Credits

This course provides students with methods of subject
development, research, and organization for oral presentation of information. Emphasis is placed on
the practical application of skills in a professional setting. Students are required to use
presentation software.

Prerequisite: ENG1101 or permission of the Dean of Liberal Arts

4

PHI3601/3301

Ethics or Philosophy

PHI3301 - Philosophy - 4 Credits

This course acquaints the student with the most significant directions of philosophical thought to the end that the student may have the ability to formulate questions, arrive at reasonable answers, and evaluate those of others.

Prerequisite: ENG1101 and 30 semester hours

PHI3601 - Ethics - 4 Credits

Ethics is a branch of philosophy that explores both the theory and application of virtues and vices in all areas of our lives. The course investigates current issues and events in the light of various moral principles that justify, clarify, explain, and direct our actions and attitudes.

Prerequisite: ENG1101 and 30 semester hours

4

IDS1001

Foundations for College Success

IDS1001 - Foundations for College Success - 1 Credit

This course provides students with an overview of the five educational outcomes expected of all
Hodges University graduates: Critical Thinking, Effective Communication, Initiative, Leadership
Ability, and Research Ability. Students will be introduced to the Blackboard Learning SystemTM,
library resources, APA format, as well as the Academic Honesty Policy and the Writing and Oral
Communication requirements of the University. All students are required to take this course their
first semester with the University. This course is graded on a pass/fail basis.

1

IDS4001

The Learning Portfolio

IDS4001 - The Learning Portfolio - 1 Credit

This course provides students with an overview of the five educational outcomes expected of all
Hodges University graduates: Critical Thinking, Effective Communication, Initiative, Leadership
Ability, and Research Ability. Students will be introduced to the Blackboard Learning SystemTM,
library resources, APA format, as well as the Academic Honesty Policy and the Writing and Oral
Communication requirements of the University. All students are required to take this course their
first semester with the University. This course is graded on a pass/fail basis.

1

Total Liberal Arts Component

38

Area III

Approved Elective Component

Approved Elective Component

Credit for courses taken under the Approved Elective Component may be granted through either
advanced standing credit (transfer credits), or classes taken at Hodges University as approved in
consultation with the Faculty/Program Advisor, Program Chair, and Dean.

20

Total Elective Component

20

Total Semester Hours for Graduation Requirement

122

Benefits

How is Hodges' Criminal Justice Program Different?

Our Contemporary Program

Our Criminal Justice program draws upon the expertise of law enforcement officers, judges, probation and parole officers, corrections personnel and practicing attorneys. As society changes, so too, will our criminal justice system. Hodges University is committed to ensuring that its Criminal Justice Program remains contemporary so that graduates of the program will be prepared to serve the communities in which they serve.

Our Learning Environment

Hodges University's Criminal Justice professors have outstanding academic credentials as well as career experience in the courses they teach. The learning environment of the class is further enhanced by the interaction of the various criminal justice students already working in the field. This blend of practical experience from both the professors and the students provides a real value to the graduates of this program.

Flexible Schedule

The Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice is offered on campus and online. Courses may also be offered during day, evening, and weekends.

More Information

Tuition

What Will the Program Cost?

Hodges University tuition continues to be one of the lowest among private institutions in the state of Florida. Basic tuition for all undergraduate credit hour courses is $530.00 per credit hour.

Additional fees may apply. Books and supplies are not included in tuition. For a complete schedule of Tuition and Fees, see the current Catalog or Graduate Bulletin.

How Does Hodges Help?

Hodges University holds several fundraising events every year that benefit institutional scholarship funds. We also directly contribute an average of approximately two million dollars per year in loan offsetting funds to assist students in achieving their educational goals. Remember that tuition may be reduced by scholarships and grants and financial aid is available.

“I started at the bottom rung on the ladder to success. I knew that education was key and Hodges had all the programs I needed.” - Willie Dennard, Master of Science in Criminal Justice

Net Price Calculator

*Net price is defined as estimated cost of attendance — including tuition and required fees, books and supplies, room and board (meals), and other related expenses — minus estimated grant and scholarship aid to current and prospective students and their families based on what similar students paid in a previous year.

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Need More Information?

You may also contact us to speak to an admissions coordinator who will guide you through the application and admissions process. To speak to an admissions coordinator call us at 1-800-466-8017 (Naples), 1-800-466-0019 (FM), use our contact form, email admit@hodges.edu or schedule a one-on-one visit to tour one of our campuses.

Your Admissions Coordinator will:

Help you complete the application in its entirety.

Help you obtain necessary transcripts.

Schedule your admissions test (if necessary).

Coordinate the Financial Aid process with a Financial Aid Professional.

Refer you to your Academic Advisor for class scheduling.

Give you information regarding your orientation.

We look forward to welcoming you to the Hodges family!

Mary Nuosce

Program Director
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